Symptoms of Foot Pain: Quick Reference

There are different types of foot pain, each with different symptoms. Below is a chart listing the symptoms and recommended footwear or orthotics for each type of foot pain.

ConditionSymptoms and SignsLocation of SymptomsRecommended Footwear and Orthotics or Padding

Corns and callusesThese are rough, thickened skin that is yellow or reddish. The area may also be painful.Around the side, top, or between toes; bottom of feet; or areas exposed to friction.Wide (toe box) shoes; lamb's wool between toes; doughnut-shaped pads for corns

Bunions and bunionettes (tailor's bunion)The toes point inward. There is a firm bump on the outside edge of the foot at base of the toe that is painful and stiff.Big toe (bunions) or little toe (bunionettes)Soft, wide-toed shoes or sandals; bunion shields or splints; padding the bunion; shoe inserts if necessary

Morton's neuromaCramping and burning pain located between the third and fourth toe or the second and third toe. The condition is worse while walking and relieved by the removal of the shoes.Third and fourth toes, as well as second and third toes, and bottom of foot near these toesWide (toe box), low-heeled shoes with good arch support; shoe inserts; padding in the shoes and/or between the toes

HammertoeToes form a hammer or claw shape. There may be pain and cramping.The second, third, or fourth toesWide (toe box) shoes; straps, cushions, or pads

MetatarsalgiaThis condition is characterized by pain, numbness, or tingling with movement.Ball of the footWide (toe box) shoes; Shoes with a stiff heel and good arch support; orthotic with pad that reduces metatarsal pressure; inserts

Plantar fasciitisPain occurs with first steps after getting out of bed, decreases after stretching, and returns after activity.Back of the arch right in front of the heelShoes with thick soles and extra padding; foot insole; heel pad; possible night splints; orthotics if necessary

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.

Stress fractures of the foot and ankle. American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons Ortho Info website. Available at:
http://orthoinfo.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00379. Updated July 2009. Accessed February 17, 2014.